“They’re still a really good bunch to work with who want to learn, listen, work hard and win.

“Their spirit hasn’t changed. When you’re not winning they may become more irritable with each other so a few barbs may be chucked out from time to time but I think they are still a very tight-knit group.

“We just know it’s harder this year than it was last.”

City welcome back Marlon Pack to the fold after the midfielder missed the loss to Blackburn Rovers due to suspension, but Nathan Baker will serve a one-match ban following his sending off.

A few players in Cotterill’s squad suffered knocks in the match against Blackburn and will be assessed prior to selection.

“It’s 50/50 with a couple,” Cotterill said.

“We’ve got a couple of bumps and bruises. I’ll need to see how they are tomorrow before I name my team.

“We’ve done some work this morning and we did some on Tuesday so we’ll have to wait and see.”